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Wednesday, 8 May 2013
Posted By:Aleksandr Broge | At:Wednesday, May 08, 2013
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Saturday, 4 May 2013
Posted By:Unknown | At:Saturday, May 04, 2013
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“Barcelona do not need a lot of changes.” This quote from manager Tito Vilanova came just hours after the Catalans were trounced 3-0 at the Camp Nou by Bayern Munich.
Vilanova and the rest of Barcelona’s top men are aware that changes have to be made if the Catalan club is to continue to perform as one of the world’s most dominant teams. But what specific moves must be made?
In this article I will take you through each move that would be the dream summer transfer window for Barcelona. If all of these moves can take place, it would be the ultimate answer from Barcelona in the face of such a decline.
Continue reading to have your say on what changes Tito Vilanova must make this summer.
Speaking of retaining players, Barcelona must also make sure they keep Martin Montoya at the Camp Nou.Recent interest in the 22-year-old from Inter Milan and Liverpool has called his future into question (via TalkSport). The defender has long been thought of as the successor of Dani Alves and that must be remembered by the club.If
Montoya is moved, it would be a very bad sign for Barcelona. The
Catalan provides immense depth already and shows signs of being a future
star.
La Blaugrana is in need of an influx of youth to give a new
spark and hunger to the squad. Sergi Roberto and Rafinha have been long
thought of as future stars and would provide just the midfield depth
Vilanova is in need of.
The duo has looked very promising in limited time this year. But with a more permanent role in the first team, they could develop into important performers.
Rafinha is also able to play in a forward role, which could make him very valuable. His versatility is needed as well as his desire to perform alongside his brother Thiago.
Sergi Roberto has proven that he is ready to contribute to the Catalan team after showcasing his talent in La Masia and at Barcelona B. The Catalan midfielder would provide more depth and could turn into a key role player in his first season with the main squad.
After finding himself outside of the starting lineup, Alex Song’s future has been called into question. The Daily Mail has announced that Tottenham are after the midfielder as he seeks more playing time than he is currently getting.
But Barcelona will be wise to keep Alex Song in Spain.
The Cameroon international has proven to be more than capable of backing up Sergio Busquets. Song has become Barcelona's new Seydou Keita and plays an important role at the club.
His strength and size make him a very valuable player in the Blaugrana midfield. And with his recent performances, he will be trusted more to give Busquets important breaks.
Alex Song’s time at Barcelona is just beginning.
Vilanova and the rest of Barcelona’s top men are aware that changes have to be made if the Catalan club is to continue to perform as one of the world’s most dominant teams. But what specific moves must be made?
In this article I will take you through each move that would be the dream summer transfer window for Barcelona. If all of these moves can take place, it would be the ultimate answer from Barcelona in the face of such a decline.
Continue reading to have your say on what changes Tito Vilanova must make this summer.
One of the most important moves within the current club that
must be made is retaining Gerard Deulofeu. Ideally, the Catalan winger
should spend another year developing, but that seems out of the
question. 
With big clubs such as Manchester City pushing to take Deulofeu away from Barcelona, promotion is the only way to make sure the future star remains at home.
The 19-year-old would likely be given a good amount of playing time and would step in to replace departing attackers.
When it comes to La Masia, keeping gems is key. Gerard Deulofeu’s case is no different and he must be kept and groomed at Barcelona.
With big clubs such as Manchester City pushing to take Deulofeu away from Barcelona, promotion is the only way to make sure the future star remains at home.The 19-year-old would likely be given a good amount of playing time and would step in to replace departing attackers.
When it comes to La Masia, keeping gems is key. Gerard Deulofeu’s case is no different and he must be kept and groomed at Barcelona.
Speaking of retaining players, Barcelona must also make sure they keep Martin Montoya at the Camp Nou.Recent interest in the 22-year-old from Inter Milan and Liverpool has called his future into question (via TalkSport). The defender has long been thought of as the successor of Dani Alves and that must be remembered by the club.If
Montoya is moved, it would be a very bad sign for Barcelona. The
Catalan provides immense depth already and shows signs of being a future
star.La Blaugrana is in need of an influx of youth to give a new
spark and hunger to the squad. Sergi Roberto and Rafinha have been long
thought of as future stars and would provide just the midfield depth
Vilanova is in need of.The duo has looked very promising in limited time this year. But with a more permanent role in the first team, they could develop into important performers.
Rafinha is also able to play in a forward role, which could make him very valuable. His versatility is needed as well as his desire to perform alongside his brother Thiago.
Sergi Roberto has proven that he is ready to contribute to the Catalan team after showcasing his talent in La Masia and at Barcelona B. The Catalan midfielder would provide more depth and could turn into a key role player in his first season with the main squad.
After finding himself outside of the starting lineup, Alex Song’s future has been called into question. The Daily Mail has announced that Tottenham are after the midfielder as he seeks more playing time than he is currently getting.But Barcelona will be wise to keep Alex Song in Spain.
The Cameroon international has proven to be more than capable of backing up Sergio Busquets. Song has become Barcelona's new Seydou Keita and plays an important role at the club.
His strength and size make him a very valuable player in the Blaugrana midfield. And with his recent performances, he will be trusted more to give Busquets important breaks.
Alex Song’s time at Barcelona is just beginning.
There will not be enough room in Barcelona’s squad for everyone
leaving a few young stars with little choice than to seek time
elsewhere. But with these young La Masia graduates showing promise,
Barcelona must seek to loan rather than sell.
Marc Bartra and
Marc Muniesa will both likely be sent off next season to get constant
playing time. The pair has shown they can be top defenders in the
future, but they won’t get proper development at Barca.
Other young La Masia talents could be sent out to get time such as Sergi Gomez and Carles Planas.
But above all other players, it looks like Isaac Cuenca will absolutely spend next season on loan. He has voiced his desire to remain another year with Ajax and the club looks set to give him his wish.
Loans play a very important part in football. For Barcelona, it will give them the chance to grow stars without having to sacrifice the playing time of their established stars.
With the departure of Victor Valdes on the horizon, Tito Vilanova must find a suitable replacement as soon as possible. Recent rumors speculate that Vicente Guaita is Barcelona’s top target, and rightly so.
The Valencia man has been arguably the best keeper in all of Spain this season.
But, Guaita also brings very important traits that would benefit Barcelona’s style. He is able to play the ball from the back, has top level experience, is familiar with the Spanish and La Liga culture and is a proven leader.
When it comes right down to it, there is no better keeper fit for Barcelona than Vicente Guaita.
Not really much to say here. The Neymar and Barcelona romance has been covered
from every angle that it is actually getting quite tiring. But the club
absolutely must convince the Brazilian starlet to make his move to
Europe this summer.
It is no secret that the last few weeks have proved that Barcelona is Messi dependent. The club needs another true scoring threat, and Neymar fits the bill perfectly.
Defenders would find it near impossible to mark both Messi and Neymar. The duo would find space due to each other’s mere presence while other attackers such as Pedro would find things much easier.
The Messi and Neymar partnership would be a beautiful thing for football and would break Barcelona’s dependence on the Argentine. La Blaugrana needs to give Leo Messi help, and what an aid Neymar would be.
The Victor Valdes issue is still up in the air. He could leave this season or remain until his contract ends. Should he stay, expect him to be the starter while Guaita settles into his new home during his first season.
Barcelona’s defense will look much better.
Dani Alves and Jordi Alba will continue to run rampant down the flanks while using speed to cover their backs. But a Pique and Hummels partnership could bring the Catalans back to a calm dominance when forced back.
Montoya and Adriano will likely play important roles as well with the former looking for chances to dethrone Dani Alves.
Macherano will also continue his role as a backup defender but will hopefully not be forced to do too much with the arrival of a true defender like Inigo Martinez.
The Blaugrana midfield will remain the best in the world.
Sergio Busquets, Iniesta and Xavi will yet again be a formidable trident, but will not play together as much as usual. Thiago will be ushered into a more important role while Cesc Fabregas will finally find his spot by not being forced to play as a forward.
Sergi Roberto and Rafinha will also provide depth, while Alex Song proves to be an insanely important figure off the bench.
Lastly, Barcelona’s attack will return to its glory days. Lionel Messi will get some help from Neymar making defenders look awful trying to mark both stars.
Pedro, Tello and Deulofeu will all play key roles as well but will have more freedom to assist the Blaugrana dynamic duo.
Of course there is no telling what Tito Vilanova will actually do. This has just been a look at the ideal moves that should be attempted. Barcelona absolutely has the means to rebound from this season and Cules should be excited about what the summer holds for La Blaugrana.
Marc Bartra and
Marc Muniesa will both likely be sent off next season to get constant
playing time. The pair has shown they can be top defenders in the
future, but they won’t get proper development at Barca.Other young La Masia talents could be sent out to get time such as Sergi Gomez and Carles Planas.
But above all other players, it looks like Isaac Cuenca will absolutely spend next season on loan. He has voiced his desire to remain another year with Ajax and the club looks set to give him his wish.
Loans play a very important part in football. For Barcelona, it will give them the chance to grow stars without having to sacrifice the playing time of their established stars.
For roughly the entire season there have been constant rumors
speculating a potential move from Barcelona bringing Mats Hummels to
Spain. More than anything else, this should be Vilanova’s top priority.
The Blaugrana defense has been in shambles for the entire season and Gerard Pique is in need of a world-class partner at the back.
Hummels
has proven himself as one of the world’s best while also possessing
important Barcelona traits such as the ability to pass and push forward.
But at heart, Hummels is a true defender, which is what has been
lacking.
The German would also be a long-term answer beside Pique as he is only 24 years old. The pairing would instantly improve Barcelona’s back line and prove to be a formidable wall for the Catalans.
The Blaugrana defense has been in shambles for the entire season and Gerard Pique is in need of a world-class partner at the back.
Hummels
has proven himself as one of the world’s best while also possessing
important Barcelona traits such as the ability to pass and push forward.
But at heart, Hummels is a true defender, which is what has been
lacking.The German would also be a long-term answer beside Pique as he is only 24 years old. The pairing would instantly improve Barcelona’s back line and prove to be a formidable wall for the Catalans.
With the departure of Victor Valdes on the horizon, Tito Vilanova must find a suitable replacement as soon as possible. Recent rumors speculate that Vicente Guaita is Barcelona’s top target, and rightly so.The Valencia man has been arguably the best keeper in all of Spain this season.
But, Guaita also brings very important traits that would benefit Barcelona’s style. He is able to play the ball from the back, has top level experience, is familiar with the Spanish and La Liga culture and is a proven leader.
When it comes right down to it, there is no better keeper fit for Barcelona than Vicente Guaita.
With Bartra and Muniesa likely being sent out on loan,
Barcelona will be in need of a very solid backup center-back. The club
should invest in a young talent that has potential, but is also ready to
perform the day he steps foot in the Camp Nou.
While there are several options, two names stick out above the rest.
The club has had its eye
on Marquinhos (18) for quite some time. The Roma defender has been
incredible this season and would be a great addition at any club. But
his high price tag could scare off Barcelona.
Inigo Martinez (21) is also a top candidate. The Real Sociedad man is one of the best upcoming Spanish defenders and has proven himself against the best in La Liga.
At a much lower cost, Martinez would be a brilliant buy for the club. He would come already prepared to make a big impact, while still being young enough to reach a much higher level of play.
Javier Mascherano will likely continue as a backup defender next year, but the club has to have better options.
While there are several options, two names stick out above the rest.
The club has had its eye
on Marquinhos (18) for quite some time. The Roma defender has been
incredible this season and would be a great addition at any club. But
his high price tag could scare off Barcelona.Inigo Martinez (21) is also a top candidate. The Real Sociedad man is one of the best upcoming Spanish defenders and has proven himself against the best in La Liga.
At a much lower cost, Martinez would be a brilliant buy for the club. He would come already prepared to make a big impact, while still being young enough to reach a much higher level of play.
Javier Mascherano will likely continue as a backup defender next year, but the club has to have better options.
The futures of both David Villa and Alexis Sanchez have been up
in the air all season. Neither player has performed at their best nor
would it not be surprising to see both wingers make their Barcelona
exit.
Although selling both forwards would generate a large income, one must be kept to provide depth on the wings.
Sanchez has attracted interest
from clubs such as Inter Milan and would generate the most revenue out
of the two. But Sanchez also has age and potential on his side, while
Villa is on the downturn of his career.
Either player could go, but it is most likely that it will be David Villa who stays.
More teams are interested in Sanchez meaning Barcelona could use the transfer to fund their big-ticket Neymar move.
However, Barcelona has made it known that they see Sergio Aguero as the top replacement for David Villa if they cannot convince the Spaniard to extend his contract.
The idea of bringing in both Neymar and Aguero while selling Alexis and Villa is pure fantasy. More than likely one of the current wingers will remain, it is just a matter of who.
Although selling both forwards would generate a large income, one must be kept to provide depth on the wings.
Sanchez has attracted interest
from clubs such as Inter Milan and would generate the most revenue out
of the two. But Sanchez also has age and potential on his side, while
Villa is on the downturn of his career.Either player could go, but it is most likely that it will be David Villa who stays.
More teams are interested in Sanchez meaning Barcelona could use the transfer to fund their big-ticket Neymar move.
However, Barcelona has made it known that they see Sergio Aguero as the top replacement for David Villa if they cannot convince the Spaniard to extend his contract.
The idea of bringing in both Neymar and Aguero while selling Alexis and Villa is pure fantasy. More than likely one of the current wingers will remain, it is just a matter of who.
Not really much to say here. The Neymar and Barcelona romance has been covered
from every angle that it is actually getting quite tiring. But the club
absolutely must convince the Brazilian starlet to make his move to
Europe this summer.It is no secret that the last few weeks have proved that Barcelona is Messi dependent. The club needs another true scoring threat, and Neymar fits the bill perfectly.
Defenders would find it near impossible to mark both Messi and Neymar. The duo would find space due to each other’s mere presence while other attackers such as Pedro would find things much easier.
The Messi and Neymar partnership would be a beautiful thing for football and would break Barcelona’s dependence on the Argentine. La Blaugrana needs to give Leo Messi help, and what an aid Neymar would be.
The Victor Valdes issue is still up in the air. He could leave this season or remain until his contract ends. Should he stay, expect him to be the starter while Guaita settles into his new home during his first season.
Barcelona’s defense will look much better.Dani Alves and Jordi Alba will continue to run rampant down the flanks while using speed to cover their backs. But a Pique and Hummels partnership could bring the Catalans back to a calm dominance when forced back.
Montoya and Adriano will likely play important roles as well with the former looking for chances to dethrone Dani Alves.
Macherano will also continue his role as a backup defender but will hopefully not be forced to do too much with the arrival of a true defender like Inigo Martinez.
The Blaugrana midfield will remain the best in the world.
Sergio Busquets, Iniesta and Xavi will yet again be a formidable trident, but will not play together as much as usual. Thiago will be ushered into a more important role while Cesc Fabregas will finally find his spot by not being forced to play as a forward.
Sergi Roberto and Rafinha will also provide depth, while Alex Song proves to be an insanely important figure off the bench.
Lastly, Barcelona’s attack will return to its glory days. Lionel Messi will get some help from Neymar making defenders look awful trying to mark both stars.
Pedro, Tello and Deulofeu will all play key roles as well but will have more freedom to assist the Blaugrana dynamic duo.
Of course there is no telling what Tito Vilanova will actually do. This has just been a look at the ideal moves that should be attempted. Barcelona absolutely has the means to rebound from this season and Cules should be excited about what the summer holds for La Blaugrana.
Posted By:Aleksandr Broge | At:Saturday, May 04, 2013
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Denis Doyle/Getty Images
After FC Barcelona were embarrassed and eliminated by FC Bayern Munich in the UEFA Champions League semifinals, el blaugrana will look to reload—not rebuild—for the 2013-14 season.
The
first and most important step in reloading will be to bring in a solid
centre-back to solidify the Barcelona back line, which has been the
weakness of this team for years now.For almost two years, I have been mentioning the name of a young German defender named Mats Hummels to be purchased. Mats' name was first brought to my attention when I read a blog that stated Hummels is a rising star in the Bundesliga. After watching a few Borussia Dortmund games on TV, I noticed this kid was in fact the real deal.
Christopher Lee/Getty Images
Euro 2012 only further proved Mats is a top-level defender. He dominated in games against Portugal, Denmark and the Netherlands. His height, instinct and ball control were too much for opponents.
Albeit Mats had a few injuries this Bundesliga season and BVB were not able to three-peat as German champions, but Hummels had a solid 2012-13 Bundesliga season. And Hummels' UEFA Champions League run has been terrific.
In the first leg of BVB's semifinal matchup against Real Madrid, Hummels made an error on defense, which lead to Madrid's lone goal of the game. After the play occurred, many fans and even so-called "football experts" were ripping Hummels. I even saw tweets that said his mistake was the reason Mats is not a top-25 defender in Europe.
What a joke!
One mistake doesn't throw away a player's skills or accomplishments. Mats made a mistake, and it could have been a costly one. But let's not act like he is no good because of it. These mistakes happen.
Hummels shut up those same critics and showed all of us why he is one of the best centre-backs in the world in the second leg of the Champions League semis against Real Madrid. Mats kept Gonzalo Higuain's runs in check, he headed out any cross into the box as well as Madrid corner kicks, he came up and headed out long passes by Madrid's midfielders and defenders and he stepped up to stop runs by the Madrid forwards.
A stellar performance by Hummels which earned him Man Of The Match honors.
Mike Hewitt/Getty Images
After watching the Barça/Bayern game on Wednesday, it reiterated everything I thought about about after the BVB game.
Hummels would help Barcelona defend set pieces, as well as corner kicks—two big areas of weakness in the Barça defense. At 6'4", Hummels and his long legs are able to slow down speedy forwards like Cristiano Ronaldo. He is also solid at clearing crosses that come into the box. And as we saw against Bayern Munich—in particular, the Gerard Pique own goal and the Thomas Müller goal—FC Barcelona are not the best at clearing crosses and can use more height in the back line.
While there are other options for a new centre-back, in my opinion, I don't think any of them are as solid as Hummels. Thiago Silva is an amazing CB, but he is a few years older (28) than Hummels (24), and Paris Saint-Germain will be very hesitant to sell a player they paid AC Milan so much for just a year ago.
Vincent Kompany is another name linked to a Barça move, and is probably the best alternative for Sandro Rosell if he is not able to acquire Hummels' services. I'm certain Manchester City will ask for a few Masia products in return—perhaps even young CB Marc Bartra or Marc Muniesa as part of the deal. For me, I'd sell Muniesa in part of a Kompany deal, but Bartra is off limits.
Finally, AS Roma's Marquinhos is a name that has come up. I haven't seen too much of this kid play, but after everything I've seen and read, the Brazilian has all the traits to become a future superstar defender. But I don't know what to feel about acquiring a 18-year-old and placing him on the Barça defense, asking him to essentially be the heir to Carles Puyol's CB throne. Plus, the kid is still very inexperienced, having never appeared in European competition or even the Brazilian national team's first squad.
Jasper Juinen/Getty Images
It is estimated that Hummels would cost Rosell €25-30 million. The Barcelona budget would allow a purchase of Hummels.
A few weeks ago, Mats told Sport Bild (via Sky Sports) that he would listen to an offer from Barcelona:
My father and I have turned down about 99.9 per cent of all the clubs in the world when they come to us. But Barcelona are one out of the two or three clubs that could make me consider a possible transfer. I would see whether it makes sense or not to leave.With Borussia Dortmund losing Mario Gotze to Bayern this summer and Robert Lewandowski potentially leaving as well, it will make more sense for Mats to leave Dortmund this summer. The team will not be as competitve as they were in 2012-13.
In an interview with a German TV show (via ESPNFC), Sandro Rosell hinted at a Mats Hummels purchase. “There is a German player who I like a lot, but I cannot say his name,” he said. “If, in the end, we go for him, that would drive up the price.”
There is no doubt Rosell was hinting at Hummels.
Alex Grimm/Getty Images
As far as Marc Bartra is concerned, I like the kid, and I'm glad he has gotten plenty of playing time with all the injuries to the back line. That being said, I feel the kid is not ready to be a full-time starter for Barcelona. He's made a few mistakes in CL games, he needs to gain more muscle and he needs to mature football-wise just a bit more.
One last thing: I have not forgotten about Carles Puyol. He will be back next season, and he's still el capita. But we all know Carles is past his prime. He still has strength, but age has taken his speed and his endurance. Carles is no longer a full-time starter.
FC Barcelona needs to finally address the defense with the signing of a true centre-back. While there are good options out there, in my opinion, there is no better option than signing Mats Hummels.
He's proven himself in the Bundesliga, with the German national team and with Borussia Dortmund. And in this season, Hummels has shown all of us that he could be the centre-back FC Barcelona desperately needs.
Who would you like to see at CB for FC Barcelona?
Neymar to Barça is essentially a certainty.
But the summer transfer window must start with addressing the Barça defense.
And Mats Hummels is the best option for FC Barcelona.
Vamos!
Posted By:Aleksandr Broge | At:Saturday, May 04, 2013
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We are here to pay respects to Spanish Soccer, may it rest in peace.
Ashes toashes. Dust to dust.What a difference nine days make.
Up until Tuesday 23rd April, and for the majority of that day, Spain was seen as the best footballing nation in the world and La Liga was considered the best league.
Then the Champions League semi-finals started happening.
Spain’s two best teams took on Germany’s two best
teams, in two matches, over two legs each. For fans of the No. 2 they
were wonderful scenes. For fans of Spanish football, they were not.The German champions-elect, Bayern Munich, took on the Spanish champions-elect, Barcelona, and beat them over both legs. 7-0 on aggregate.
And, while the deposed German champions, Borussia Dortmund, didn’t beat the deposed Spanish champions, Real Madrid, quite as convincingly over both legs, they did still qualify over them and beat them on aggregate.
This leaves an all-German Champions League final on May 25th and establishes the Deutschland game as the world’s premier country for football. But what for the sport in Spain now? Is there even any point in them playing it anymore?
And, looking at it, how didn’t we see the death of Spanish football sooner?
La Liga only has two major teams that are followed outside of Spain. It’s like Scotland but with nicer weather. Where as with Germany you have major teams like Bayern, Dortmund and, erm… everyone loves Hoffenheim, right?
A lot of people claim the Barcelona side is the best club side of all time, but Bayern Munich thrashed them, so what does that make Bayern? (Please don’t take that logic any further, as Arsenal beat Bayern, and Bradford City beat Arsenal, so that makes Bradford City the best club side of all time).
Even international football is in decline in Spain. The
Spanish team haven’t won the World Cup in THREE years. And while they
did win the Euros last year, they only managed to edge past Italy in the
final, with an unconvincing 4-0 victory.And what about the quality of Spanish players? The most expensive Spanish player of all time is Fernando Torres, and Demba Ba’s keeping him out of the Chelsea side.
And how many of the world’s top 3 greatest players play in La Liga? Only the third, Jamie Mackie, still plays in the English Premier League.
Finally, “Bundesliga” is more fun to say than “La Liga.”
Friday, 29 March 2013
Posted By:Unknown | At:Friday, March 29, 2013
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Eric Abidal has been named in Barça’s 19-man list for tomorrow’s's game with Celta at Balaidos. Just over a year since undergoing a liver transplant the Frenchman continues his long road to recovery with a return to the squad. However, Barça travel to Vigo this evening without Tito Vilanova. The Barça coach took his first training session this afternoon but his doctors have advised him not to travel with the team so Jordi Roura will continue in charge as Barça look to take another step towards the 22nd Liga title.
It is hoped that Vilanova will be well enough to travel to Paris for the Champions League quarter final with PSG on Tuesday. Barça are also without the suspended Victor Valdés and the injured Pedro, Xavi, Puyol, Adriano and Jordi Alba for tomorrow’s game, so Barça B players Oier Olazabal and Gerard Deulofeu have been added to the squad for the trip.
With the match in Paris just round the corner it may be difficult for Barça to remain fully focused on the immediate task. With a lead of 13 points over second placed Real Madrid it may be inevitable that the players find it difficult to maintain the intensity in the league, especially on the eve of a Champions League tie. However, we still need eighteen points to cross the finishing line, and there can be no better preparation for the PSG game than a win over Celta. Tomorrow’s game has the added interest of a possible extension to Leo Messi’s scoring record, as he could complete an entire vuelta of consecutive games scoring against all 19 of La Liga’s other clubs.
Celta are facing a hard fight against relegation this season. Poor results led to the sacking of coach Paco Herrera midway through February with the ex-Atlético Madrid goalkeeper Abel Resino taking over. Resino saw his new team beat Granada 2-1 in his first game in charge but since then Celta have suffered three straight defeats which leave them struggling in 19th position on 23 points.
Resino will be without several players for tomorrow’s game, top scorer Iago Aspas begins a four-match ban after getting sent off for head-butting Carlos Marchena in the 3-1 defeat at Deportivo two weeks ago, and Michael Krohn-Dehli, Andrés Tuñez, Hugo Malla, Samuel, Alex Lopez and reserve goalkeeper Sergio Alvarez are all out too. However, it is first choice keeper Javi Varas who may be key to Celta’s chances tomorrow.
Many will remember Varas for saving Messi’s last minute penalty in the 0-0 draw with Sevilla last season but he is also the last goalkeeper in La Liga who managed to prevent Messi from scoring. The day after Messi became a father back in NovemberAdriano, Villa and Alba scored the goals in Barça’s 3-1 win but Varas denied Messi the chance to dedicate a goal to little Thiago. Since then, of course, Messi has scored against every other club and he now has the opportunity to include Celta for a ‘full-set’ and extend his remarkable scoring record to 19 games. However, Barça and Messi should be warned that despite Celta’s lowly league position only three clubs have conceded fewer goals at home than the Galicians.
With PSG in mind, Vilanova and Roura may decide to keep the Messi on the bench. Both Mascherano and Messi played an exhausting match for Argentina at altitude in Bolivia on Tuesday, and with the long journeys involved it might be considered wise to rest the Argentinians for the Champions League. However, it often seems that in these cases the coaches simply ask the players if they feel okay to play. If this is this case you can be pretty sure that both Mascherano and Messi will opt to play.
Barça’s 19-man squad: Pinto, Oier, Alves, Montoya, Bartrá, Piqué, Mascherano, Abidal, Busquets, Song, Johnathan dos Santos, Thiago, Fabregas, Iniesta, Alexis, Messi, Villa, Tello, Deulofeu.
Possible teams:
Celta: Javi Varas; Jonny, Cabral, Demidov, Lago; Oubiña, Pranjic; Augusto Fernandez, Park Chu Young, De Lucas; Bermujo.
Barça: Pinto; Alves, Piqué, Mascherano, Montoya; Thiago, Busquets, Fabregas; Alexis, Messi, Villa.
Prediction: Celta 1 Barça 2
Date: Saturday 30 March 2013. Kick off 6 pm.
Wednesday, 27 March 2013
Posted By:Unknown | At:Wednesday, March 27, 2013
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In an epic clash between two international heavyweights, it
would be Spain who triumphed, 1-0, over France, courtesy of a Pedro
second-half goal.
Yet ultimately, it would be the world champions who emerged victorious with a tough and gritty win that sends them to the top of the group as a result.
This one started as expected, with Spain dominating most of the play early—controlling the midfield wonderfully through Xavi and Andres Iniesta.
They would immediately be rewarded with an opportunity for Xavi after just five minutes, as he found himself on the end of Nacho Monreal's cross just five yards out and in front of goal. However, his shot would somehow miss the goal and fly over the crossbar.
La Furia Roja would continue to dominate the chances, with France seemingly content to set up strong at the back and try to hurt their opponents on the counterattack.
Les Bleus would find themselves with a great chance to do just that after Christophe Jallet found himself with acres of space on the right flank. His cross in found Karim Benzema at the top of the box, but his shot, too, sailed over the crossbar.
Controversy occurred at the half-hour mark when Barcelona star Pedro went to the ground in the box—at first glance due to contact from French goalkeeper Hugo Lloris.
However, no penalty was given, and upon further review, that may well have been a great decision from the officials.
France would see their best chance of the half fall on 38 minutes when Franck Ribery got himself in behind the Spanish defense and through on goal. His second touch was perhaps a little too long, though, and it allowed Victor Valdes to come out and shut down his shot—sending this game to the halftime interval still locked at 0-0.
Scott Heavey/Getty Images
However, he could do nothing about what would come only moments later—left flailing after a wonderful cross from the left that found Pedro just one yard out.
Pedro would just manage to get his boot on the end of the cross—beating Patrice Evra, who was supposed to be marking him—and force a shot on goal.
And while Lloris would get his hands on the initial shot, the ball would rebound off him into the net for the opening goal of the game.
After defending so gallantly, France trailed the world champions, 1-0.
Scott Heavey/Getty Images
The Bayern Munich star was able to set up Blaise Matuidi for a free shot on goal, but the PSG midfielder put his shot straight at Valdes.
But after 20-year-old midfielder Paul Pogba was dismissed for two bookable offenses in the space of two minutes, it seemed France's chances at success were finished here.
They struggled greatly in the final 15 minutes, down to 10 men against the tiki-taka of Spain, and ultimately fell, 1-0, on the night as a result.
Player Grades
Franck Ribery, France: B
Denis Doyle/Getty Images
He was able to break free just before halftime and very nearly opened the scoring, but saw his shot saved by a sprawling Victor Valdes.
He was also able to get free on a breakaway once more and set up a great scoring chance for Blaise Matuidi, but his shot was also straight at the goalkeeper.
On a frustrating night that didn't offer much in attack, Ribery was very strong.
Xavi, Spain: A
David Ramos/Getty Images
He was in his usual passing masterclass and created a number of chances during the match, with which Spain really should have done more.
The Barcelona midfielder will no doubt rue the chance he missed after five minutes—especially after all that transpired—where he really should have scored. Xavi also found himself forward later on in the half, but scuffed that opportunity as well, though it is hard to fault him given the fact that he isn't a true goal-scoring threat.
A very strong night from Xavi, who allowed Spain to look much more at home with him in the middle.
Christophe Jallet, France: B
Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images
The defender was beaten by a sublime Andres Iniesta pass to Nacho Monreal in the first few minutes, which nearly created the first goal, but that would be the lone instance in which he was exploited. Some may question his positioning for the goal itself, but Monreal was not his man to pick up, and he should not be held accountable for rushing up to pressure the Arsenal left-back.
It was a strong performance from Jallet. He more than held his own against Spain's mighty attack and proved to be real weapon for France going forward.
Victor Valdes, Spain: A-
Gonzalo Arroyo Moreno/Getty Images
The Barcelona goalkeeper made an excellent read to deny Franck Ribery in the first half, and came off his line brilliantly to deny the French players queuing up at the back post. And while those might not seem like moves, they were crucial in Spain hanging on for the victory.
Heavily criticized throughout the year, Valdes was very strong on this occasion, with no save more important than his 86th-minute reflex to preserve the win for Spain.
What did you take away from Spain's 1-0 win over France?
Tuesday, 26 March 2013
Posted By:Unknown | At:Tuesday, March 26, 2013
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According to French publication l‘EQUIPE, Zlatan
Ibrahimovic has been cleared to play against Barcelona in the first leg
of the Champions League quaterfinal in Paris. The forward, who was
initially suspended for two matches after his sending off in the first
leg tie against Valencia in the previous round, has reportedly seen his
ban reduced to one match on the basis of a technicality.
Provided the reports are true, this will
allow the Swede two opportunities against his former club. The
reduction in the ban is also a big lift for PSG, as the towering striker
is their most potent threat, with 30 goals and 10 assists so far this
season.
Posted By:Unknown | At:Tuesday, March 26, 2013
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Brazil and Russia played out an intriguing 1-1 draw at Stamford
Bridge on Monday night, with the South Americans grateful to striker
Fred for a last-minute equaliser to spare the pain of defeat.
Russia started the better of the two sides and, although Brazil came back strongly into the tie, it is Fabio Capello's side that will feel that they should have won on the night.
Viktor Fayzulin eventually turned home a penalty-box scramble to give Russia the lead with 15 minutes to play, and it looked like it would be enough heading into the final moments.
Fluminense striker Fred, though, disagreed and popped up in the dying moments to turn home a low cross after good work from Marcelo and Hulk on the left.
What, then, can we learn from the friendly fixture in West London?
Julian Finney/Getty Images
Russia started the better of the two sides and, although Brazil came back strongly into the tie, it is Fabio Capello's side that will feel that they should have won on the night.
Viktor Fayzulin eventually turned home a penalty-box scramble to give Russia the lead with 15 minutes to play, and it looked like it would be enough heading into the final moments.
Fluminense striker Fred, though, disagreed and popped up in the dying moments to turn home a low cross after good work from Marcelo and Hulk on the left.
What, then, can we learn from the friendly fixture in West London?
Julian Finney/Getty Images
It was a disappointing night in general for Brazil, but nothing left fans quite as downhearted as the showing of Real Madrid midfielder Kaka.
Not helped by being shunted out to the flanks, Kaka showed little of the invention and quick thinking that he has demonstrated so often down the years. His general lethargy will worry manager Felipão.
Indeed, it was a first half that posed many questions about his current suitability as an international player.
When moved into central areas after the break, there is no doubting that his performance improved. However, he was still outshone by all those in similar positions—even if they were far from outstanding in their own right.
Kaka may still have a role to play for Brazil, and his experience is doubtless invaluable, but he simply has to be first choice at club level if he is to justify his inclusion in the squad.
Two abject outings this week have done little for his cause.
Tony Marshall/Getty Images
Julian Finney/Getty Images
Shaun Botterill/Getty Images
Tony Marshall/Getty Images
Not helped by being shunted out to the flanks, Kaka showed little of the invention and quick thinking that he has demonstrated so often down the years. His general lethargy will worry manager Felipão.
Indeed, it was a first half that posed many questions about his current suitability as an international player.
When moved into central areas after the break, there is no doubting that his performance improved. However, he was still outshone by all those in similar positions—even if they were far from outstanding in their own right.
Kaka may still have a role to play for Brazil, and his experience is doubtless invaluable, but he simply has to be first choice at club level if he is to justify his inclusion in the squad.
Two abject outings this week have done little for his cause.
Tony Marshall/Getty Images
Julian Finney/Getty Images
Shaun Botterill/Getty Images
Tony Marshall/Getty Images
Brazil have an array of attacking talent, that is clear, but it
seems that they are at somewhat of a loss as to how best to use it.
Kaka and Oscar spent much of the first half in wide roles, with the latter making a good fist of the challenge while the former struggled. A move to central areas after the break helped the Madrid man somewhat, but the presence of both also negated the potential influence of Neymar dropping deep from the forward line.
With the introduction of Hulk, who impressed in an unfamiliar left-wing role, Kaka was then moved to the right flank and his malaise quickly picked up from where it had left off just minutes earlier.
Scolari clearly has options in terms of attacking players, but there is little point using them if they will be played out of position. If he wants a left-winger, then he must select a natural left-winger.
Brazil's long-term vision is confused at the moment, but Scolari has not been afraid to make bold decisions in the past and must do so again if he is to succeed in 2014.
Marco Luzzani/Getty Images
Kaka and Oscar spent much of the first half in wide roles, with the latter making a good fist of the challenge while the former struggled. A move to central areas after the break helped the Madrid man somewhat, but the presence of both also negated the potential influence of Neymar dropping deep from the forward line.
With the introduction of Hulk, who impressed in an unfamiliar left-wing role, Kaka was then moved to the right flank and his malaise quickly picked up from where it had left off just minutes earlier.
Scolari clearly has options in terms of attacking players, but there is little point using them if they will be played out of position. If he wants a left-winger, then he must select a natural left-winger.
Brazil's long-term vision is confused at the moment, but Scolari has not been afraid to make bold decisions in the past and must do so again if he is to succeed in 2014.
Marco Luzzani/Getty Images
Monday, 25 March 2013
Posted By:Unknown | At:Monday, March 25, 2013
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Barcelona coach Tito Vilanova to return to Spain after undergoing cancer treatment Barcelona coach Tito Vilanova will return to Spain this week after two months in New York undergoing cancer treatment, the Catalan club have announced. Barcelona say Tito Vilanova's surgery went 'as expected' as he begins second fight against cancer Fighter: Barcelona manager Tito Vilanova has stepped down from his position, after a relapse of a cancerous tumour he had removed last year .Vilanova travelled to America on January 21 for chemotherapy and radiotherapy following surgery on his parotid gland in December. The 44-year-old had suffered a relapse after first having a tumour removed from his throat in November 2011. It was expected Vilanova would be returning home by the end of this month and Barca today confirmed that is the case, although they have not said when he is expected to resume first-team duties.
A statement on the club's official website read: "The Barcelona coach, Tito Vilanova, will leave the city of skyscrapers this week to return to the Catalan capital.
"Jordi Roura has been in charge of the team over the last couple of months and has been in permanent contact with Vilanova to agree on important decisions, but Vilanova's place on the bench has always been kept for him and this week the team will welcome their boss back. Welcome home Tito."
While Vilanova has been in the United States, Barca have had mixed results, winning eight of their 13 competitive matches while losing three.
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In La Liga they are 13 points clear of Madrid ahead of this weekend's trip to Celta Vigo.
Next Tuesday they face Paris St Germain in the first leg of the Champions League quarter-finals in France.
Sunday, 24 March 2013
Posted By:Unknown | At:Sunday, March 24, 2013
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ASTANA, March 22 (Reuters) - Germany eased past lowly Kazakhstan 3-0 on Friday without deploying any strikers for the first time in a competitive match under coach Joachim Loew as they stayed top of their World Cup qualifying Group C. Two goals in two minutes midway through the first half from midfielders Bastian Schweinsteiger and Mario Goetze, playing in a forward role, quickly put the Germans in control and dashed any faint hopes for the hosts. Thomas Mueller grabbed Germany's third goal in the 74th minute in a lacklustre second half after the home side attempted a brief comeback and even hit the bar. The result lifted Germany to 13 points from five games ahead of Sweden, playing Ireland later on Friday, who have seven points from three games. (Writing by Karolos Grohmann, editing by Mark Meadows)
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